Best Medical Alert Watches

Compare our top picks for the best medical alert watches

To select our picks for the best medical alert watches, we considered factors such as cost and features, including fall detection and monitoring services.

Our top picks for the best medical alert watches include:

• Medical Guardian MGMove Medical Alert Smartwatch
• Bay Alarm Medical SOS Smartwatch

All product information and pricing is accurate as of April 21, 2026.

How do medical alert watches work?

Medical alert watches work by connecting the user to a monitoring center that can dispatch emergency services when the user presses a button or falls (if the watch has automatic fall detection). Some watches may contact a predetermined contact or 911 directly.

• Monitored medical alert watches: Monitored medical alert watches contact an agent in a monitoring center who determines your needs and contacts emergency services if necessary.
• Unmonitored medical alert watches: Unmonitored medical alert watches call a predetermined contact or 911 directly.

For exact details on how each medical alert watch works, it’s best to speak with a medical alert company directly.

» MORE: Questions to ask a medical alert company

What to consider when shopping for a medical alert watch

When searching for a medical alert watch, there are a few things you need to think about:

Cost

Most medical alert watches include an initial equipment fee and a monthly monitoring fee.

Features

Many medical alert smartwatches come with health-tracking features, such as a heart rate tracker or step counter. Others come with caregiver features that allow your loved ones to check on your location and health. You can also typically add on fall detection, which sends out alerts when the user falls and can't call for help themselves.

Complexity

Medical wristwatches, especially smartwatches, have multiple useful features. These devices can be complicated, though, which may keep many older adults from using the full functionality of their alert system. In this case, a simpler watch might be more helpful.

Your activity level

Active older adults should consider the watch’s battery life and whether it's waterproof. A waterproof medical alert watch with a long-lasting battery ensures that you can call for help when you need it most.

Pros and cons of medical alert watches

Consider the benefits to having a medical alert watch, as well as some drawbacks.

How much do medical alert watches cost?

Medical alert watches typically range from around $30 to $300 or more, though you’ll also need to pay for a monthly monitoring subscription. Smartwatches typically cost more than a basic medical alert watch, though how much you’ll pay also depends on the features and add-ons you get.

Does Medicare cover medical alert watches?

Medicare coverage can be hard to navigate when figuring out what is covered and what isn’t.

According to Brittany Ferri, a certified occupational therapist, Medicare Part B doesn’t usually cover medical alert systems because these systems are referred to as “personal comfort items.” Ferri said it’s possible to get some assistance with a Medicare Advantage Plan for a medical alert system.

Ferri said some other ways you can pay for a medical alert system include:

• Medicaid waivers, which are state-dependent
• Programs and grants
• Non-profits
• Discounts or subsidized programs offered by medical alert companies

» MORE: How much do medical alert systems cost?

FAQ

Bottom line: Should you get a medical alert watch?

Medical alert watches can allow older adults to remain active without worry, and they have a more modern look than many traditional medical alert devices. You can decide if you want a watch with fall detection, health-monitoring apps, a longer battery life, caregiver notifications or messaging. You can also choose a simple medical alert watch that gives you the help you need in an emergency.